Mexican Street Corn Salad

The tantalizing aroma of grilled corn wafts through the air as you dive into a refreshing bowl of Mexican Street Corn Salad, a vibrant blend of flavors that come together in just 20 minutes. This dish is a wonderful twist on traditional elote, bringing the essence of street food into your own kitchen while offering a creamy, tangy, and smoky finish that perfectly complements the sweetness of the corn.

This recipe is perfect for summer gatherings, potlucks, or anytime you crave a fresh, flavorful side dish. It can be prepared ahead of time, making it an easy add-on to your meal prep. Simply chill until ready to serve for the best flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The charred corn adds a smoky flavor that makes every bite memorable.
• Creamy dressing paired with crunchy corn creates an exciting texture contrast.
• It can be served warm or cold, perfect for any occasion.
• Quick preparation ensures you can whip it up in no time.

What You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients to make this delicious salad:

For the Salad

• 4 ears corn, husked
• 1/2 cup cotija cheese, crumbled
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

For the Dressing

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cotija cheese can be substituted with feta if unavailable.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
• Replace corn with canned or frozen corn for convenience.
• Lime juice can be swapped with lemon juice for a different flavor.
• Use parsley instead of cilantro for a different herbal note.

How to Make It

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious salad.

Grill the Corn

Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill the corn for about 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally until charred.

Cool and Cut the Corn

Let the corn cool slightly, then cut the kernels off the cob.

Mix the Dressing

In a bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, garlic, chili powder, salt, and pepper.

Combine the Ingredients

Add the grilled corn to the dressing and toss to combine.

Stir in the Cheese

Stir in the cotija cheese and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Serve or Chill

Serve immediately or chill until ready to serve.

How to Store It

Fridge: up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: no, the texture changes after freezing.
Reheat: not recommended; serve cold for best flavor.

Tips for Best Results

• Ensure the corn is fresh for optimal sweetness and crunch.
• Don’t skip the grilling step; the char enhances the flavor dramatically.
• Adjust lime juice based on your preference for acidity.
• For extra heat, add chopped jalapeños to the salad.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair it with grilled meats at your next BBQ.
• Serve alongside tacos for a festive meal.
• Bring it to picnics as a standout side dish.